Spanish Eyes

Spanish Eyes rhythm section arrangement by Bill Fulton is scored for 2 keyboards, guitar, bass, and drums. The five-piece ensemble provides a rich musical setting for the familiar melody while remaining compact and practical for live performance.

Spanish Eyes Rhythm Section Arrangement

“Spanish Eyes” developed from Bert Kaempfert’s instrumental composition “Moon Over Naples.” The vocal song became widely known through recordings by several singers, including Engelbert Humperdinck. Its flowing melody works well with an accompaniment that can change color without becoming overly dense.

Two keyboards give this arrangement a wide range of harmonic and tonal options. Guitar adds another distinct texture. Bass and drums provide the rhythmic foundation and help establish the feel of the performance.

Scored for 2 Keyboards, Guitar, Bass and Drums

This five-piece instrumentation can produce much more variety than its size might suggest. The two keyboardists can use different sounds and registers. Guitar can then occupy its own musical space. Bass and drums connect the harmonic instruments and provide a steady foundation.

Bill Fulton’s arranging work includes music for rhythm sections, little big bands, full big bands, chamber ensembles, and orchestras. Visit the Arrangements, Compositions & Commissions page to explore more examples.

For more information about one of the singers closely associated with the song, visit the official Engelbert Humperdinck website.

Classic Song for a Five-Piece Ensemble

The Spanish Eyes rhythm section arrangement uses two keyboards to broaden the harmonic palette while keeping the instrumentation economical. Guitar provides another color, and bass and drums create the rhythmic core.

The complete instrumentation is 2 keyboards, guitar, bass, and drums. This combination gives five musicians enough range to create a full accompaniment while preserving the melodic character of “Spanish Eyes.”

Year: 2015
Job Category: Arranger
Title: Spanish Eyes
Ensemble: 2 keyboardists, guitar, bass, drums
Client: Engelbert Humperdinck
Description: co-arranger with Jeff Sturges
Get arrangement: link to arrangement (pending)